A Deptford Township police officer has been charged with first-degree murder after the man he allegedly shot died Friday.
Police say David Compton, 27, was taken off support at Cooper Medical Center in Camden around 1a.m. and died a short time later. His family announced his passing in a press release:
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved son and brother, David. While it was our hope that David would be able to overcome the injuries he suffered, it has become apparent that, despite receiving the finest medical care, his injuries were just too severe."
Read full family statement here
Investigators say Compton was shot in the head inside the home of Officer James Stuart, 29, on Saturday morning around 5 a.m.
Stuart was taken into custody Friday. His bail was set at $250,000, according to authorities.
Deptford Police Chief Daniel Murphy also released a statement Friday regarding the shooting incident.
“We would like to express our sincere condolences and sympathy to the Compton family, especially David Compton’s parents, immediately family and close friends. Members of our police department are devastated by this event and we want the Compton Family to know that we have been praying for David and are very sorry to learn of his passing. We had all hoped and prayed for a different outcome, and want the family to know that they will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers during this time of loss."
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An attorney for the officer says Stuart and Compton had a long-term friendship dating back to high school and that the shooting was an accident.
The shooting remains under investigation, according to police.
